Best Backup Generator for Home Use in 2016-2017

Modern devices such as smart phones and tablets make our lives easier but it is the freezers, refrigerators, coffee pots and more that keep us going. When the power goes out, modern living becomes a lot more complicated. Which is why many people have portable generators for backup power.

Less expensive than larger standby unit, portable backup power can be used for a power outage, to run tools around the home or provide power wherever it is needed. Having a backup generator means never having to worry about an extended power outage brought on by weather or someone cutting through a line.

Generator Usage

In the last several decades, portable generator usage as soared. Not just after a disaster or event, but even in less danger prone areas, generators are still popular.

Part of the reason is that generators make a good backup when the power goes out but also because they are versatile enough for carrying camping, tailgating and for use with an RV. They come in a wide range of sizes, fuel types, and price points. They can be found almost anywhere from residential backup service to industrial use on job sites.

Know Your Power Demand

To know the size of generator you need you have to look at all the appliances or devices you want to run or charge in case of a power outage. Often the information you require is located on the adapter that plugs into the wall. You need the voltage for each device or appliance and the amperage required.

You add your voltage to derive a total and you add all your amperage together to create a total. Now, you multiply the voltage total by the amperage total and this will give you the amount of watts you need your generator to produce.

Five Great Backup Generators

Top Rated Gas Portable Generator

This simple but effective generator makes for a good backup generator for any home. The Champion Power Equipment Model #41135 Generator produces 5500 Watts of continuous power generation and it has a surge capacity of 6800 Watts. There are four standard outlets and one twist lock for connection to a transfer switch or generator cord.

There is an analog volt meter and the engine is equipped with an easy pull recoil start system. The unit is quiet running and is fully CARB compliant. People who have and use this generator love the quick starting and the stable power delivery.

Best Reliable Gas Home Generator

Westinghouse is a dependable name in power generation and this generator continues that tradition. This generator – Westinghouse Model #WH6500E Generator is electric start and supplies a continuous generation of 6500 Watts and a surge capacity of 8000 Watts, enough to handle large surge equipment like sump pumps and freezers.

It has four standard three prong outlets, all circuit protected and single twist lock for external connections. The muffler is a unique design to keep the generator quiet even when running at full load. People who have purchased this generator love the generous power supply and how easy this is to operate.

Best Gas Powered Portable Generator

While not as well known as other brands, WEN produces quality equipment that you can depend on. This model – WEN Model #56877 Generator is great for home backup generation as it supplies a continuous flow of 7000 Watts and has a surge capacity of 9000 Watts, giving it the capability of handling larger homes.

This unit has two different twist lock connections and four standard, three prong outlets and a 12V cigarette style connection for plenty of options. It is electric start and it has an LCD display for providing information about the unit. People who have this generator love how well it works even after having been stored.

Best Generator for Power Outages

The Duro lines are among the most popular on the market. This model – DuroMax Model #XP10000EH Generatoris a dual fuel generator capable of running on gasoline or propane and it is electric start for quick and easy running. Producing a surge capacity of 10000 Watts, and a continuous generation of 8000 Watts, this unit is EPA approved and is great for large homes.

Three separate twist lock connections and two standard outlets provide plenty of options for connectivity. There is also a 12V DC connection port. People who have this generator love how reliable this unit is and how well it supplies their power needs.

Top Portable Inverter Generator for Home

Different from all the others in the list, this Yamaha may only produce up to 4500 Watts of surge capacity and a continuous generation of 4000 Watts, but it uses an inverter to provide near perfect sine waves of energy. The Yamaha Model #EF4500iSE Generator is electric start and can be equipped with a remote for distance starting.

It has a single twist lock and two standard, three prong outlets and the entire unit is mobile thanks to four wheels, making it easy to move about. Great for RV’s or home use, people who have this generator love the longevity of the generator and the super quiet running.

Do not use a generator indoors or in an enclosed space such as a garage, even with the door open. Do not attempt to refuel a hot or running generator, allowing at least thirty minutes of cool down time. To get the best results, be sure to read and follow all manufacturer’s guidelines included in your operations manual.

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